We are often asked to recommend a good toilet.  Consumers almost always want to make sure they are getting the best value product, but not always do you get the best value by buying neither the most expensive product nor the most popular brand.  So how do you make sure you are buying a good quality toilet that will flush according to your expectations?

In 2003 the MaP (Maximum Performance) testing protocol was incorporated to determine how well toilets could perform.  Before MaP ratings there were no official ratings, manufacturers had there own and so did consumers, but for all we know those ratings could of been just a matter of opinion.  MaP testing is very basic, yet unique and efficient.  The testing is done by simulating human waste with soybean paste (sorry for the details), the testers will than measure how much of the paste the toilet could flush in grams by simply dropping the waste in the toilet and pulling the lever.
The maximum rating for a toilet is 1,000 grams per flush (highly doubt you’ll need that much as it equates to more than two pounds!!!) and the minimum for a MaP toilet is 350 grams.  As of 2004 all Water Sense (EPA) labeled toilets must also be at a minimum of 350 grams p/f.  Keep in mind that manufacturers are not required to have their toilets MaP tested.  Since MaP testing began about eight years ago, the toilet industry has become more competitive; MaP testing has set new thresholds for manufacturers to meet if they want to compete in the market.  While manufacturers are competing to develop more efficient/high performing toilets, us the consumers are reaping the benefits.

So next time you are looking for a toilet make sure you look for it’s map rating.  If you by a toilet with out a rating you may be disappointed. MaP ratings do not reflect the craftsmanship of the toilet, but does assure flushing performance.

Comments 0

Leave a Comment